QODA MEP and QODA Light was appointed by Bath Preservation Trust to restore the Grade I listed Beckford’s Tower and Museum.

The project brief for services installations was largely focused on maintaining stable environmental conditions within the museum spaces, while also reducing the heating running costs and associated carbon emissions.

The existing oil-fired heating system was removed and new air source heat pump units, serving radiators throughout the museum spaces were added. Conservation heating control has been used to control internal humidity levels while significantly reducing the plant requirements. A hybrid approach has been taken where local standalone humidifiers can be provided during winter months, allowing the temperature to be raised while not lowering the relative humidity too far.

Another key element to reduce carbon emissions is the installation of a roof-mounted photovoltaic array on the second-floor roof. As part of the wider full refurbishment of the building, small power and data services were renewed throughout, and upgraded fire and security alarms and CCTV installations were provided.

 

With the building undergoing a complete refurbishment, an entirely new lighting installation could be developed. Flexibility was key within the museum rooms to accommodate the different hangs and artefacts displayed. A simple track system ensured the spotlights could be easily re-located and used local on-board dimming control to balance illuminance levels easily. Colour rendering is also critical when displaying artwork, so luminaires with excellent colour rendering properties were selected.

Inside the tower, a fabulous spiral staircase ascends to fantastic views of the surrounding area. Spotlights are located at the tower’s base to light the artwork, with a second set lighting the staircase void, reflecting light from the interior surfaces. To light the Belvedere space a simple ring of light has been introduced, wrapping around the staircase enclosure. This simultaneously lights the space and offers a view in from the outside of the tower at night. A combination of spotlights and linear LED luminaires highlight the columns and timber panelling. An existing fibre optic lighting system, located around the edge of the lantern roof, was replaced to ensure the newly painted golden roof is shown in all its glory, whilst reducing the need for maintenance at the most inaccessible part of the Tower.

 

A new set of stairs leading to the newly excavated grotto tunnel has been introduced. Small LED luminaires were located in the handrail, sensitively lighting the visitor route after dark. The handrail luminaires provide very directional lighting, ensuring there is limited spill light onto the surrounding area. Internally, small external projectors are used to wash light up the walls, emphasizing the texture of the structure and subtly lighting the space.